Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
Older sash windows be prone to a variety of issues including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little attention, they can be restored to a high level of performance.
First, remove the seal with a utility knife. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take off any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a bag that has a label.
Sealing
Sash windows can look stunning in older buildings, but they require regular maintenance and are susceptible to issues such as wet rot, cracked putty, and draughts. Repair, sealing or replacement of the windows in sash is a great method to minimize these issues and improve the efficiency of energy.
Draughts are mostly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also trigger noise reduction and rattling. window repairs can be employed to reduce air leaks in windows with sash, including sealing beads, specialist products and secondary glazing.
A common problem is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of the sash and the sill. This can lead to moisture leaking in, rotting of the wood and the growth of mould. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.
If a gap in the window is preventing windows from closing and opening smoothly, it may be necessary to replace spring bronze or sash runners. These bronze strips are attached by staples or nails to the lower sash edges in order to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular weather-stripping made of vinyl is a different option however it can tear, and can make a difference to the appearance of windows.
It is crucial to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing the new sash runners. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash up to the horizontal centerline of the rail of the meeting and from the bottom sash down to the sill. These measurements can be incorporated into the new runners, which will help ensure a proper fit and better operation of the window.
In older structures the gap between the sash and frame is usually larger around the leading edge. It can be draught proofed by using a self-adhesive Vstrip, however it is essential to take this into consideration when measuring and cutting the material.
The strip should be cut at the height of the sash with an inch added on each side to allow movement. It should be squarely trimmed and positioned to align with the angle of the sill. It is also essential to make use of stainless steel screws since brass can rust and a high-quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.
Refurbishment
The sash is an attractive, historical feature of many homes. However, despite their beauty these windows are prone to a myriad of issues. Draughts, rattling, sticking or leaking are common issues. Frames that are rotting and rails that connect them, as along with broken glazing bars, damaged weights or rotten frames can all cause problems. When these issues arise, it's time to consider repairs or replacements to your sash.
Refurbishment is more expensive alternative than replacing the sash itself however, it can bring back the appearance and function of your sash window to as good, if not better than its original state. Refurbishment involves the lining of both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty, and repairing any damage caused by decay. It also involves painting the frame of timber and re-glazing with traditional glass. A full refurbishment can also include adding draught proofing, re-attaching the sash furniture/ironmongery and replacing the parting bead (the dividing strip between the two panes of glass). It's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent the rattling.
If you require a new sash, it can be made using similar designs to the frame that was previously used and keep the character of your house. This is especially important for listed buildings where any changes to the windows require planning permission.
Before putting the new window in place, it's best to check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If the tabs are different shapes, the new sash won't fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.
If a window has been damaged, it is crucial to decide between repair or replacement, since each kind of repair will require a different level of expertise and expense. If a significant portion of the glass in the sash is missing replacing it is the better alternative. But when the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is decaying, a repair may be the better option.
Replacement
Many homeowners would like to keep their old sash window in good condition, but the deterioration of the window will eventually cause issues such as rattles or draughts. Broken glass may also occur. This is why replacing them is often the only solution to these issues. There are other ways to improve the performance of sash windows rather than replacing them. These include installing secondary glazing and draught-proofing.
It's important to consider the severity of a issue, since it might not be practical to replace an entire window. A foggy glass problem for instance, is usually caused by the sash and can be addressed without having to tear out the entire frame. It is typically possible to fix a poor seal by making a few easy solutions, rather than cutting out the entire frame and reinstalling it.
Sash windows have a complex design with a lot of moving parts. This is why it can be a challenge to solve common issues, like snapped sash cords or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something most homeowners would want to take on themselves. This is why many choose to work with an expert.
A specialist can help restore windows made of sash back to their original glory or even bring them up to current energy standards. This can include reconditioning frames and installing secondary glass to block heat from getting out of the window. It is also possible to install an extra strip of brush pile to stop the rattling and decrease drafts.
To begin a repair, remove the window stops (the moldings that are in front of the lower sash). Then you can loosen the staff, and pull out the lower window sash. Take off the cords or chains on both sides. Then, remove the sash weights from the bottom of the weight cavity and take them off. Keep the hardware in a secure place. Use a heat gun to soften hardened filler or putty. Scrape it off using the blade of a putty. Reassemble the window, reconnect the hardware and lubricate the pulley axles using silicone or Teflon spray. Install the parting beads again and reinstall the upper sash.
Repair
It is important for the homeowner to make a choice on whether to replace or repair their sash windows. Modern replacements are beneficial in many ways however, the original features of an older home can add the character and value. They are also cheaper to repair rather than replace. Maintaining them in good shape can help save on energy costs. Sash windows are prone to rattles, drafts and condensation. These problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.
Sash windows can be difficult to open or close. The mechanism for sliding could be slack or become draughty. It is best to leave the repair of window with sash to a specialist since it requires extensive removal. However, with the right tools and knowledge it is possible to fix old sash windows yourself. Adam shows Jess how to begin:
Remove any security fittings behind the lower window sash. Then, you can remove the staff bead. Finally, pull out the bottom sash. Then, pull out the cords or chains on both sides, and tie them to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. Now it's time to take out the upper sash. Take out the sash stops which is a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash. Also, take off any painted-covered hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a massive iron or lead cylinder that is hidden in a cavity, and secured by an elastic cord. To keep the sash from falling into the void, make a hole in it using nails and remove the weight.
Once the sashes are free clean the jamb and meet rails, remove the glazing bars and sash cords and strip any paint from the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops after the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are small enough not to puncture the balancing weight.
To reassemble the sash, place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Verify that the sash stoppers and the frame are properly aligned. If needed, reconnect any beads that are parting. Reattach the sash chains or cords and then install the sash pulleys.